The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Sounding Retreat

Step back in time and experience an unforgettable evening of military music and pageantry as Pontefract Castle hosts a special Sounding Retreat, marking 80 years since The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (KOYLI) was granted the Freedom of the City of Wakefield.

Set against the dramatic ruins of one of the Wakefield district’s most iconic landmarks, this stirring, open‑air performance will be delivered by The Band and Bugles of The Rifles, bringing the castle to life with the sights and sounds of a traditional British Army ceremony. Expect precision, heritage and atmosphere as music echoes across the historic castle walls at dusk.

The event celebrates Wakefield’s deep and enduring links with the Armed Forces. The KOYLI’s historic depot was based at nearby Pontefract Barracks, while today, Y Company, 8 Rifles continues that connection from Minden House, the last remaining building from the barracks still in military use.

This commemorative evening offers a chance to honour local history, veterans and serving personnel, while enjoying a memorable cultural experience in a truly special setting. Suitable for all ages, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Pontefract Castle in a new and atmospheric way.

The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome, but you must book a ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What time does the event start? The gates will open at 5pm. The Sounding Retreat will begin at 6:30pm and end at 7:30pm.  Everyone will need to be off site no later than 9pm.
• Will the performance still go ahead if it is raining?  Due to the nature of the Sounding Retreat, which involves marking soldiers performing on a grassed area, and the use of specialist musical instruments, a decision will be taken on the day by The Rifles if weather conditions are unsuitable.
• Do you offer refunds or exchanges? Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Only in the event of us cancelling will a refund be offered.
• Is the event wheelchair accessible? Will there be a designated access area? Yes. The main Pontefract Castle site is accessible by wheelchair. There is a hardstanding path that runs around the main grassed event area (The Bailey) however some areas on The Bailey are uneven. A space close to the performance area will be marked out as an accessible area. There will be an option to let us know when you book online if you need use of this space. You can also browse full access information for Pontefract Castle.
• Are refreshments available? Yes, there will be an on-site bar. The Castle’s Keep Café and Gift Shop will also be open during the event.
• Can I bring my own food and drink? Yes. Please use the waste and recycling bins provided or take your rubbish home with you. No open flames or BBQs are allowed.
• Is there any seating? No, please bring your own low back chairs. A limited number of benches will be positioned on the site.
• Is the event outdoors? The event will take place outdoors on the main grassed area of the Castle. Parasols or tents are not permitted due to safety and visibility issues.
• Can I bring my dog? No, assistance dogs only due to the number of people expected. Assistance dogs must be on a lead at all times.
• Are there toilets available? Yes, there will be portable toilets on The Bailey including an accessible Portaloo. The Visitor Centre toilets will also remain open during the event.
• Where can I park? We recommend that you use the Pontefract Town centre car parks.
• I have a Blue Badge, where can I park? Roadside parking will be available for Blue Badge holders on many of the surrounding roads marked with double yellows. Please check The Blue Badge Scheme for rules on where parking is permitted.
  
  There will be a limited number of spaces available in the Castle car park however access to the castle is up an incline on a cobbled path.
• Can I smoke / vape during the event? Smoking or vaping is not allowed in the grounds of Pontefract Castle. A smoking area will be available outside the main gates.

Seating and picnic equipment guidelines

To help keep walkways clear and ensure the comfort and safety of all visitors, only small personal seating will be permitted inside the event.

✔ Allowed

• Folding camping chairs

• Small picnic bags, small coolers

✘ Not Allowed

• Trestle tables

• Picnic tables

• Full-height dining tables

• Oversized coolers, large trolleys, or bulky luggage

Event staff may ask visitors to leave any oversized items at the gate before entering. All decisions regarding item size and suitability are final.

For any further questions, please email festivals@wakefield.gov.uk